Photobiomodulation for Oral Mucositis - A Microcosting and Budget Impact Analysis from a Brazilian Perspective

ABSTRACT Objective: To measure the costs of preventive and therapeutic protocols of Photobiomodulation (PBM) for oral mucositis (OM) and their budgetary impact on Brazil's Ministry of Health (BMH). Material and Methods: A partial economic analysis was performed to estimate the costs using a bottom-up approach from a social perspective. Monetary values were assigned in Brazilian reais (BRL). The costs of the preventive protocol were calculated for five, 30, and 33 consecutive PBM sessions, depending on the antineoplastic treatment instituted. The costs of the therapeutic protocol were calculated for 5 or 10 sessions. The annual financial and budgetary impact was calculated considering the groups of oncologic patients with a higher risk of development of OM, such as those with head and neck and hematological cancer and pediatric patients. Results: The cost of a PBM session was estimated at BRL 23.75. The financial impact of providing one preventive protocol per year for all oncologic patients would be BRL 14,282,680.00, 0.030% of the estimated budget for hospital and outpatient care of the BMH in 2022. The financial and budgetary impacts of providing one treatment for OM for all patients in one year would be BRL 2,225,630.31 (0.005%, most optimistic scenario) and BRL 4,451,355.63 (0.009%, most pessimistic scenario). Conclusion: The budgetary impact of implementing PBM protocols in the Brazilian Healthcare System is small, even in a pessimistic scenario.

La economía feminista. Camino hacia la construcción de un paradigma alternativo. Ideas para seguir debatiendo / The feminist economy. Path towards the construction of an alternative paradigm. Ideas for further discussion

El abordaje onto epistémico de este ensayo se desarrolla en tres grandes miradas: un desarrollo gnoseológico orientado a precisar diferentes posicionamientos de la economía feminista como un movimiento político, herramienta de lucha y resistencia para enfrentar un modelo económico misógino, patriarcal, excluyente y a espaldas de la vida. Seguidamente, se precisan aspectos relevantes de su historicidad, partiendo de las figuras más resaltantes de la economía neoclásica. El hombre dentro de esta perspectiva (Homus Economicus), es el motor de la producción de riqueza, el agente económico por excelencia. Modelo donde no aparecen las relaciones sociales, las mujeres, la vida… Solo producir y consumir. Finalmente, se destaca toda una serie de avances y desafíos. Dentro de estas nuevas perspectivas, se pone especial atención a las relaciones de cuidado y afecto que se producen en los hogares como trabajo no remunerado. El cuidado de la vida humana toma el escenario, exigiendo nuevas perspectivas de análisis y la ampliación de fronteras a fin de destacar su relevancia social y económica; a partir de la utilización de estrategias para la valoración de la producción doméstica incorporando nuevas propuestas sobre el manejo de las estadísticas con lentes de género. El presupuesto gubernamental, se debe presentar desagregado y analizado el efecto de políticas de gastos e ingresos de manera diferenciada y situada(AU)

The ontologic epistemic approach in this essay is developed in three main perspectives: a gnoseological development aimed at specifying different positions of feminist economics as a political movement, a tool of struggle and resistance to face a misogynistic, patriarchal, exclusionary economic model behind the back of life. Next, relevant aspects of its historicity are specified, starting from the most outstanding figures of neoclassical economics. Man within this perspective (Homus Economicus), is the engine of the production of wealth, the economic agent par excellence. Model where social relationships, women, life do, not appear... Just produce and consume. Finally, a whole series of advances and challenges are highlighted. Within these new perspectives, special attention is paid to the relationships of care and affection that occur in households as unpaid work. The care of human life takes the stage, demanding new perspectives of analysis and the expansion of borders in order to highlight its social and economic relevance; from the use of strategies for the valuation of domestic production, incorporating new proposals on the management of statistics with gender lenses. The government Budget, should be presented disaggregated, and the effect of expenditure and revenue policies should be analyzed in a differentiated and situated manner(AU)

Aspectos esenciales para realizar los cuidados en guarderías privadas desde la perspectiva de las cuidadoras / Essential Aspects, from the Perspective of Childcare Workers, for Providing Care in Private Daycare Centers

Introducción: El nuevo modelo económico cubano ha posibilitado la aparición de guarderías privadas, pero se desconocen qué aspectos deben ser considerados como esenciales para ejercer los cuidados desde la perspectiva de las cuidadoras Objetivo: Explorar aspectos esenciales para realizar los cuidados en guarderías privadas desde la perspectiva de las cuidadoras. Métodos: Estudio cualitativo de tipo exploratorio, realizado entre junio y septiembre de 2021 con 12 cuidadoras que laboran en guarderías privadas del municipio Santa Clara, provincia Villa Clara, Cuba. Los datos se obtuvieron mediante dos rondas de entrevistas; las narrativas fueron procesadas mediante análisis de contenido. Resultados: De la primera entrevista se manifestaron las siguientes categorías: higiene y protección para el cuidado, alimentación del niño, rutinas (sueño), problemas relacionados con el cuidado y rutinas (juego). De la segunda entrevista emergieron tres categorías: necesidad de un manual para la preparación, necesidad de un sitio digital para consulta y necesidad de curso de formación. Conclusiones: Se destaca la necesidad de garantizar en la guardería la higiene adecuada y disminuir el riesgo de accidentes; la preparación de alimentos y dietas; las rabietas, caídas y la fiebre como problemas más comunes; las rutinas de descanso y la rutina de juego y su influencia para el desarrollo armónico de los niños, además que las cuidadoras deberían recibir formación a través de un manual específico para guarderías privadas; algún sitio de consulta en internet y un curso preparatorio(AU)

Introduction: The new Cuban economic model has made possible the appearance of private daycare centers, but there is lack of knowledge concerning what aspects, from the perspective of childcare workers, should be considered as essential to perform caregiving. Objective: To explore, from the perspective of childcare workers, essential aspects of care in private daycare centers. Methods: Qualitative and exploratory study carried out between June and September 2021 with twelve childcare workers from private daycare centers in Santa Clara Municipality, Villa Clara Province, Cuba. The data were obtained through two rounds of interviews; the answers were processed through content analysis. Results: The following categories emerged from the first interview: hygiene and protection for care, child feeding, routines (sleep), problems related to care and routines (playing). Three categories emerged from the second interview: the need for a training manual, the need for a virtual consultation site, and the need for a training course. Conclusions: The need is highlighted to guarantee adequate hygiene in the daycare center and reduce the risk of accidents; diet and food preparation; tantrums, falls and fever as the most common problems; rest and playing routines, as well as their influence on harmonious child development; together with the fact that childcare workers should receive training through a specific manual designed for private daycare centers, any type of virtual consultation site and training course(AU)

The relationship between public and private health investment and economic development based on the overlapping generations (olg) model / Relação entre investimento público e privado em saúde e desenvolvimento econômico com base no modelo de gerações sobrepostas (olg) / Investigación sobre la relación entre la inversión en salud pública y privada y el desarrollo económico a partir del modelo de generación superpuesta

ABSTRACT As an important part of human capital, healthy human capital plays a great role in promoting economic development. Based on the overlapping generations (OLG) model, this study establishes a correlation analysis model between healthy human capital and economic growth. This model takes utility maximization as the theoretical carrier to study how individuals promote economic growth while pursuing the maximization of their own health capital accumulation. The model can analyze the promotion mechanism of healthy human capital on economic growth, so as to provide decision support for relevant personnel. Taking the panel data of 11 provinces and cities in China as samples, this paper makes an empirical analysis of the model. The results show that healthy human capital investment in coastal areas is generally high, and the relationship between healthy human capital and economic growth conforms to the inverted U-shaped development model, so we should pay attention to the reasonable proportion of healthy human capital investment. In addition, from the fitting effect of the regression model, the F-statistic values of model 1 and model 2 are 672.6327 and 1240.188, which shows that the fitting accuracy of the two regression models is higher.

RESUMO Como parte importante do capital humano, o capital humano saudável desempenha um grande papel na promoção do desenvolvimento econômico. Com base no modelo de gerações gerações sobrepostas (OLG), este estudo estabelece um modelo de análise de correlação entre o capital humano saudável e o crescimento econômico. Este modelo leva à maximização da utilidade como suporte teórico para estudar como os indivíduos promovem o crescimento econômico, enquanto procedem à maximização de sua própria acumulação de capital saudável. O modelo pode analisar o mecanismo de promoção de capital humano saudável em crescimento econômico, de modo a fornecer suporte de decisão para os profissionais. Tomando os dados do painel de 11 províncias e cidades da China como amostra, o presente estudo faz uma análise empírica do modelo. Os resultados mostram que o investimento em capital humano para a saúde nas zonas costeiras é geralmente elevado, e a relação entre o capital humano saudável e o crescimento econômico está em conformidade com o modelo de desenvolvimento invertido em forma de U, pelo que devemos prestar atenção à proporção razoável de investimento em capital humano saudável. Além disso, a partir do efeito de ajuste do modelo de regressão, os valores F-estatísticos do modelo 1 e do modelo 2 são 672.6327 e 1240.188, o que mostra que a precisão de ajuste dos dois modelos de regressão é maior.

RESUMEN Como parte importante del capital humano, la salud juega un papel importante en la promoción del desarrollo económico. Basado en el modelo de generaciones superpuestas (OLG), este estudio establece un modelo de análisis de correlación entre capital humano saludable y crecimiento económico. Este modelo toma la maximización de la utilidad como portador teórico para estudiar cómo los individuos promueven el crecimiento económico mientras persiguen la maximización de su propia acumulación de capital en salud. El modelo puede analizar el mecanismo de promoción del capital humano saludable sobre el crecimiento económico, a fin de brindar apoyo a las decisiones del personal relevante. Tomando como muestra los datos de panel de 11 provincias y ciudades de China, este artículo realiza un análisis empírico del modelo. Los resultados muestran que la inversión de capital humano saludable en las áreas costeras es generalmente alta, y la relación entre capital humano saludable y crecimiento económico se ajusta al modelo de desarrollo en forma de U invertida, por lo que debemos prestar atención a la proporción razonable de inversión de capital humano saludable. Además, del efecto de ajuste del modelo de regresión, los valores del estadístico F del modelo 1 y del modelo 2 son 672,6327 y 1240,188, lo que muestra que la precisión de ajuste de los dos modelos de regresión es mayor.

Teaching work routine: challenges to nursing professors in contemporary times / Cotidiano laboral docente: enfrentamientos de los profesores de enfermería en la contemporaneidade / Cotidiano laboral docente: enfrentamentos dos professores de enfermagem na contemporaneidade

Abstract Objective: To describe the organization of nursing professors' work and analyze its limiting and facilitating aspects. Method: A qualitative and descriptive study composed of professors from the federal public universities of Rio de Janeiro. Data collection took place through semi-structured interviews. The content analysis technique was used for data processing. Results: Twenty-seven (27) professors participated. Facilitating elements of the teaching work were: work environment; autonomy and flexibility; liking what they do; use of technologies; and solidarity of the professional group; while hindering elements included: high work demand; intense work rhythm; scarcity of material and human resources; and academic competitiveness. Conclusion: The configuration of the teaching work organization is complex and multifaceted, presenting high psycho-affective, cognitive and physical demands which enhance illness in these workers.

Resumen Objetivo: Describir la organización del trabajo del docente de enfermería y analizar sus aspectos limitadores y facilitadores. Método: Investigación cualitativa y descriptiva, compuesta de docentes de universidades públicas federales de Río de Janeiro. La recolección de datos ocurrió mediante entrevista semiestructurada. La técnica para el tratamiento de los datos fue el análisis de contenido. Resultados: Participaron 27 docentes. Los elementos facilitadores del trabajo docente fueron: ambiente laboral; autonomía y flexibilidad; aprecio por lo que hace; empleo de las tecnologías; y solidaridad del colectivo profesional. Los elementos dificultadores fueron: alta demanda de trabajo; ritmo laboral intenso; escasez de recurso material y humano; y competitividad académica. Conclusión: La configuración de la organización laboral docente es compleja y multifacética, presentando alta exigencia psicoafectiva, cognitiva y física, lo que potencia que se enfermen dichos trabajadores.

Resumo Objetivo: Descrever a organização do trabalho do docente de enfermagem e analisar seus aspectos limitadores e facilitadores. Método: Pesquisa qualitativa e descritiva, composta por docentes de universidades públicas federais do Rio de Janeiro. A coleta de dados ocorreu em por meio de entrevista semiestruturada. A técnica para o tratamento dos dados foi a análise de conteúdo. Resultados: Participaram 27 docentes. Os elementos facilitadores do trabalho docente foram: ambiente de trabalho; autonomia e flexibilidade; gosto pelo que faz; uso das tecnologias; e solidariedade do coletivo profissional. Os elementos dificultadores foram: alta demanda de trabalho; ritmo laboral intenso; escassez de recursos material e humano; e competitividade acadêmica. Conclusão: A configuração da organização laboral docente é complexa e multifacetada, apresentando alta exigência psicoafetiva, cognitiva e física, o que potencializa o adoecimento desses trabalhadores.

América Latina: una historia de violencia heredada. Revisión bibliográfica / Latin America: history of inherited violence.Reviewpaper

Introducción:América Latina a cinco décadas de seguir las políticas económicas y fiscales del Fondo Monetario Internacional y del Banco Mundial, que la llevarían al crecimiento y desarrollo y en lasque los Estados-gobiernos se centraron paraconstruir la democracia,sin tener el efecto deseado, al contrario,la región está viviendo en la violencia más profunda y creciente, sumado al reto delaCOVID-19. Objetivo:Conocer las causas que originaron esta situación, que afecta a la población vulnerable, que sufre la violencia en varios entornos y con efectos diversos. Metodología:Cualitativa (1970-2020); en lo histórico, económico, social, de desarrollo, de crecimiento y bienestar en la región, siguiendo los postulados de Amartya Sen del año 2000 con relación al ejerciciode las libertades de la población y su bienestar. Se prefirieron las revisiones, estados del arte, estudios y análisis. Resultados:Se encontró que el modelo económico colapsó desde 1980 pues fundamentó su base económica solo en los recursos naturales. Continuó la dependencia externa. Las políticas económicas, fiscales y asistenciales tampoco fueron efectivas. La población se quedó sin educación y empleo, generando migración creciente, pobreza extrema y vulnerabilidad. Centroamérica esla zona más golpeadaya que sus habitantes son mayoritariamente rurales e indígenas. Actualmente se sigue el mismo modelo. Regresó la violencia de las fuerzas policiales y esta se detonó también en la población como mecanismo de defensa y sobrevivencia. Conclusiones:Los hallazgos demuestran el fracaso del modelo;las políticas nunca consideraron la capacidad contributiva real, ni las demandas de educación, empleo, seguridad y bienestar. Finalmente, los efectos de la pandemia en la región, corroboran lo endeble del sistema de salud, la fragilidad de las economías y a nivel social, el inminente incremento de población vulnerablecon futuro incierto...(AU)

Economic model for obtaining cyclodextrins from commercial cgtase

A repetitive batch process was employed followed by membrane ultrafiltration system to produce low-cost cyclodextrins (CDs) using commercial enzymes Toruzyme® cyclomaltodextrin glucanotransferase (CGTase) and its kinetic parameters were determined. The ultrafiltration system enabled the removalof inhibitory products from the reaction medium, allowing the enzyme to be recovered for reuse. A 10 kDa membrane was used to separate the different CDs produced by the CGTase. The substrates evaluated were maltodextrin, corn starch and cassava starch at 5, 10 and 15% (w/V), in the presence and absence of 10% (V/V) ethanol. After reaction for 132 h, 10% (w/V) cassava starch in the presence of ethanol provided the best results with 32.1 mg/mL of ß-CD. Maximum production occurred after 72 h of reaction, with a yield of 87.4% of ß-CD and an α-CD, ß-CD and γ-CD production ratio of 1:1:0.08 g, respectively. When eight repetitive batches of 72 h followed by ultrafiltration and crystallization of ß-CD were performed, 2.1 g of precipitate was obtained with a purity of 67.6% ß-CD. The supernatant from the crystallization process was lyophilized and resulted in 35.3% α-CD. The developed model can be used industrially for the production of low cost CDs from easily obtained raw material

Research on competitiveness of traditional Chinese medicine industry's international trade based on diamond theory / 中国中药杂志

China has a long history of the international trade of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM).And the export products mainly composed of Chinese herbal medicine and its extracts with Chinese patent herbal medicine and health care products as complementary items.The international trade of TCM faces problems of structural disequilibrium in export products and trade barriers.In this study,we used Michael Porter's diamond model to analyze the international competitiveness of TCM industry.We found that TCM industry in China was rich in production factors and broad in market demands,but lack of the related and supporting industries.In addition,compared with the herbal medicine manufacturers in European,American and Japanese,enterprises in China were weaker in the strategy making,market positioning and industry competing.The development of the international market of herbal medicine,the arrival of the aging society,and the introduced policies of the TCM,provide great opportunities for TCM industry' s development.In order to improve the competitiveness of the TCM industry,we propose to increase the international recognition of TCM by developing clinical study,cope with international trade barrier by strengthen international standardization research,and improve the competitiveness of TCM industry by economies of scale formed by the accumulation of the pharmaceutical industry.

Estimating the Fiscal Costs of Osteoporosis in Korea Applying a Public Economic Perspective

BACKGROUND: Osteoporosis and attributable fractures are disruptive health events that can cause short and long-term cost consequences for families, health service and government. In this fracture-based scenario analysis we evaluate the broader public economic consequences for the Korean government based on fractures that can occur at 3 different ages.METHODS: We developed a public economic modelling framework based on population averages in Korea for earnings, direct taxes, indirect taxes, disability payments, retirement, pension payments, and osteoporosis health costs. Applying a scenario analysis, we estimated the cumulative average per person fiscal consequences of osteoporotic fractures occurring at different ages 55, 65, and 75 compared to average non-fracture individuals of comparable ages to estimate resulting costs for government in relation to lost tax revenue, disability payments, pension costs, and healthcare costs. All costs are calculated between the ages of 50 to 80 in Korean Won (KRW) and discounted at 0.5%.RESULTS: From the scenarios explored, fractures occurring at age 55 are most costly for government with increased disability and pension payments of KRW 26,048,400 and KRW 41,094,206 per person, respectively, compared to the non-fracture population. A fracture can result in reduction in lifetime direct and indirect taxes resulting in KRW 53,648,886 lost tax revenue per person for government compared to general population.CONCLUSIONS: The fiscal consequences of osteoporotic fractures for government vary depending on the age at which they occur. Fiscal benefits for government are greater when fractures are prevented early due to the potential to prevent early retirement and keeping people in the labor force to the degree that is observed in non-fracture population.

Análisis de costo-utilidad en Colombia del tratamiento integral del carcinoma de seno con reconstrucción inmediata frente a la reconstrucción diferida / Immediate versus delayed breast reconstruction in breast cancer patients in Colombia: A costutility analysis

Resumen Introducción. La reconstrucción mamaria inmediata o diferida hace parte del tratamiento del cáncer de mama. Cada país y sistema de salud costea y evalúa estos procedimientos de forma diferente. Es importante determinar cuál estrategia resulta de mayor costo-utilidad en Colombia. Objetivo. Evaluar la costo-utilidad del tratamiento del cáncer de mama con reconstrucción inmediata, comparada con la reconstrucción diferida. Materiales y métodos. Se utilizó un modelo de árbol de decisiones con un plazo previsto de un año desde la perspectiva del tercer pagador. Los datos de costos se tomaron del manual tarifario del Instituto de Seguros Sociales de 2001 más un ajuste del 30 % según la metodología del Instituto de Evaluación Tecnológica en Salud y el modelo de facturación del Centro Javeriano de Oncología del Hospital Universitario San Ignacio. Las probabilidades de transición y las utilidades se obtuvieron de médicos especialistas, de las pacientes y de la literatura médica. Se hicieron los análisis univariado y probabilístico de sensibilidad. Resultados. Los costos esperados per cápita fueron de COP$ 26'710.605 (USD$ 11.165) para la reconstrucción inmediata y de COP$ 6'459.557 (USD$ 11.060) para la diferida. La reconstrucción inmediata generó un costo incremental de COP$ 251.049 (USD$ 105), así como 0,75 años de vida ajustados por calidad (AVAC), en tanto que la diferida generó 0,63 AVAC, con una relación de costoutilidad incremental de COP $2'154.675 por AVAC (USD$ 901). Conclusiones. El costo por AVAC no superó el umbral de aceptabilidad del producto interno bruto (PIB) per cápita. Los costos durante el primer año resultaron similares y ambas técnicas son favorables para el sistema de salud colombiano, pero la utilidad de la reconstrucción inmediata reportada por los pacientes y en la literatura médica, es mayor.

Abstract Introduction. Breast reconstruction, either immediate or delayed, is part of the treatment of breast cancer. Each country and health system pays for and evaluates these procedures in different ways. Thus, it is important to determine which strategy is most cost-effective in Colombia. Objective: To evaluate the cost-utility of breast cancer treatment with immediate reconstruction compared with delayed reconstruction. Materials and methods: We used a decision tree model and a one-year time horizon from the perspective of the third-party payer; the cost data were taken from the Colombian Instituto de Seguros Sociales 2001 rate manual plus a 30% adjustment according to the methodology of the Instituto de Evaluación Tecnológica en Salud, IETS, and the billing model of the Centro Javeriano de Oncología at the Hospital Universitario San Ignacio. The transition probabilities and profits were obtained from medical specialists, patients, and the medical literature. We also conducted univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. Results: The expected costs per capita were COP$ 26,710,605 (USD$ 11,165) for the immediate reconstruction and COP$ 26,459,557 (USD$ 11,060) for the deferred reconstruction. Immediate reconstruction generated an incremental cost of COP$ 251,049 (USD$ 105) and 0.75 quality-adjusted life years (QALY), while deferred reconstruction generated 0.63 QALYs, with an incremental cost-utility ratio of COP$ 2,154,675 per QALY (USD$ 901). Conclusions: The cost per QALY did not exceed the acceptability threshold of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita. The costs for the first year were similar. Both techniques are favorable for the Colombian health system, but the utility reported by patients and the literature is greater with the immediate reconstruction.

Cost-utility of quadrivalent versus trivalent influenza vaccine in Brazil - comparison of outcomes from different static model types

ABSTRACT Background: Influenza burden in Brazil is considerable with 4.2-6.4 million cases in 2008 and influenza-like-illness responsible for 16.9% of hospitalizations. Cost-effectiveness of influenza vaccination may be assessed by different types of models, with limitations due to data availability, assumptions, and modelling approach. Objective: To understand the impact of model complexity, the cost-utility of quadrivalent versus trivalent influenza vaccines in Brazil was estimated using three distinct models: a 1-year decision tree population model with three age groups (FLOU); a more detailed 1-year population model with five age groups (FLORA); and a more complex lifetime multi-cohort Markov model with nine age groups (FLORENCE). Methods: Analysis 1 (impact of model structure) compared each model using the same data inputs (i.e., best available data for FLOU). Analysis 2 (impact of increasing granularity) compared each model populated with the best available data for that model. Results: Using the best data for each model, the discounted cost-utility ratio of quadrivalent versus trivalent influenza vaccine was R$20,428 with FLOU, R$22,768 with FLORA (versus R$20,428 in Analysis 1), and, R$19,257 with FLORENCE (versus R$22,490 in Analysis 1) using a lifetime horizon. Conceptual differences between FLORA and FLORENCE meant the same assumption regarding increased all-cause mortality in at-risk individuals had an opposite effect on the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio in Analysis 2 versus 1, and a proportionally higher number of vaccinated elderly in FLORENCE reduced this ratio in Analysis 2. Discussion: FLOU provided adequate cost-effectiveness estimates with data in broad age groups. FLORA increased insights (e.g., in healthy versus at-risk, paediatric, respiratory/non-respiratory complications). FLORENCE provided greater insights and precision (e.g., in elderly, costs and complications, lifetime cost-effectiveness). Conclusion: All three models predicted a cost per quality-adjusted life year gained for quadrivalent versus trivalent influenza vaccine in the range of R$19,257 (FLORENCE) to R$22,768 (FLORA) with the best available data in Brazil (Appendix A).

An Economic Modeling Study of Helicobacter pylori Eradication: Comparison of Dual Priming Oligonucleotide-Based Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction and Empirical Treatment

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Dual priming oligonucleotide-based multiplex polymerase chain reaction (DPO-based PCR) can detect the presence of clarithromycin resistance without culture. The aim of this study was to investigate the cost-effectiveness of DPO-based PCR for Helicobacter pylori eradication. METHODS: From 2015 to 2016, medical records of patients who received H. pylori eradication therapy were analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups: tailored group patients who were treated based on DPO-based PCR and empirical group patients. Eradication rate and medical cost, including diagnostic tests, eradication regimens, and 13C-urea breath tests, were compared between the two groups. Cost for one successful eradication was calculated in each group. The expected cost of eradication for empirical treatment was investigated by varying the treatment duration and eradication rate. RESULTS: A total of 527 patients were analyzed (tailored group 208, empirical group 319). The eradication success rate of the first-line therapy was higher in the tailored group compared to that in the empirical group (91.8% vs 72.1%, p < 0.01). The total medical cost for each group was 114.8±14.1 U.S. dollars (USD) and 85.8±24.4 USD, respectively (p < 0.01). The total medical costs for each ultimately successful eradication in the tailored group and in the empirical group were 120.0 USD and 92.4 USD, respectively. The economic modeling expected cost of a successful eradication after a 7- or 14-day empirical treatment was 93.8 to 111.4 USD and 126.3 to 149.9 USD, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Based on economic modeling, the cost for a successful eradication using DPO-based PCR would be similar or superior to the expected cost of a successful eradication with a 14-day empirical treatment when the first-line eradication rate is 80%.

Integrating economics into the rationale for multisectoral action on obesity / Integrar la economía en los fundamentos de la acción multisectorial en materia de obesidad / Integrar aspectos econômicos à fundamentação para ação multissetorial em obesidade

ABSTRACT Obesity is a compelling example of the challenges of championing and mobilizing a response that involves the whole of government and all of society. This paper discusses the need for economic rationales to strengthen the case for government intervention on obesity, with a view to better engaging the expertise and resources of nonhealth sectors. The paper also briefly reviews economic theory and evidence that could support an integrated multisectoral rationale for action, noting opportunities to expand the integration of economic evidence in the Americas.

RESUMEN La obesidad es un ejemplo contundente de los retos que implica el defender y movilizar una respuesta que abarque a todo el gobierno y toda la sociedad. En este artículo se aborda la necesidad de contar con fundamentos económicos para respaldar la pertinencia de la intervención gubernamental en materia de obesidad, a fin de incorporar la pericia y los recursos de sectores ajenos al sector de la salud. En el artículo también se examina brevemente la teoría económica y la evidencia que podrían sustentar un fundamento multisectorial integrado para la acción, a la vez que se destacan las oportunidades para ampliar la integración de la evidencia económica en la Región de las Américas.

RESUMO A obesidade é um bom exemplo do desafio de defender e mobilizar uma resposta que envolva o governo e a sociedade como um todo. Este artigo aborda a necessidade de fundamentação econômica para fortalecer o argumento para a intervenção do governo na obesidade visando atrair mais conhecimento especializado e recursos dos setores externos à saúde. O artigo analisa resumidamente a teoria econômica e as evidências que poderiam embasar uma fundamentação multissetorial integrada para ação e destaca as oportunidades para ampliar a integração das evidências econômicas nas Américas.

Curing Chronic Hepatitis C: A Cost Comparison of the Combination Simeprevir Plus Sofosbuvir vs. Protease-Inhibitor-Based Triple Therapy

ABSTRACT Introduction. Interferon-free, multi-direct acting antiviral (DAA) therapy for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is highly effective and well tolerated, but costly. To gain perspective on the evolving economics of HCV therapy, we compared the cost per cure of a multi-DAA regimen with the prior standard of triple therapy. Material and methods. Patients infected with HCV genotype 1 who were treated through the University of Colorado Hepatology Clinic between May 2011 and December 2014 comprised the study population. The multi-DAA regimen of simeprevir plus sofosbuvir (SMV/SOF) was compared to the triple therapy regimen consisting of peginterferon and ribavirin, with either boceprevir or telaprevir (TT). Sustained-virologic response (SVR) rates, total costs per treatment and adverse events were recorded. Total cost per SVR were compared for the two treatments, controlling for patient demographics and clinical characteristics. Results. One hundred eighty-three patients received SMV/SOF (n = 70) or TT (n = 113). Patients receiving SMV/SOF were older, more treatment experienced, and had a higher stage of fibrosis. SVRs were 86% and 59%, average total costs per patient were $152,775 and $95,943, and average total costs per SVR were $178,237 vs. $161,813.49 for SMV/SOF and TT groups, respectively. Medication costs accounted for 98% of SMV/SOF and 85% of TT treatment costs. Conclusion. The high cure rate of multi-DAA treatment of HCV is offset by the high costs of the DAAs, such that the cost per cure from TT to multi-DAA therapy has been relatively constant. In order to cure more patients, either additional financial resources will need to be allocated to the treatment of HCV or drug costs will need to be reduced.

Cost-Effectiveness and Clinical Impact of Antiviral Strategies of HBeAG-Positive and Negative Chronic Hepatitis B

ABSTRACT Introduction. Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is associated with high burden and healthcare costs. Virologic response achieved with antivirals is associated with progression avoidance. This study aimed to estimate the efficiency and clinical impact of antiviral strategies in CHB patients. Material and methods. A Markov model estimated lifetime complications and direct costs in both, HBeAg-positive and HBeAg-negative cohorts. Strategy 1 (71% of treated population) and strategy 2 (100%), both based on pegylated interferon (peg-IFN) followed by oral tenofovir or entecavir, were compared to no treatment. Progression was based on HBV-DNA levels. Rescue therapy with oral antivirals was applied for peg-IFN failure. Disease costs (€, 2014) and utilities were obtained from literature. Results. Compared to natural history, strategy 1 increased QALY (3.98 in HBeAg-positive, 2.16 in -negative cohort). With strategy 2, survival was up to 5.60 (HBeAg-positive) and 3.05 QALY (in HBeAg-negative). The model predicted avoidance of 128 and 86 carcinomas in HBeAg-positive and -negative patients with strategy 1, and up to 181 and 121 in HBeAg-positive and -negative for strategy 2. Total cost increased up to €102,841 (strategy 1) and €105,408 (strategy 2) in HBeAg-positive, and €85,858 and €93,754 in HBeAg-negative. A€1,581/QALY gained ratio was estimated versus the natural history for both strategies. In conclusion, increasing antiviral coverage would be efficient, reducing complications.

Avaliação econômica dos Programas Rede Farmácia de Minas do SUS versus Farmácia Popular do Brasil / Economic evaluation of the Programs Rede Farmácia de Minas do SUS versus Farmácia Popular do Brasil

Resumo A fim de esclarecer qual programa de assistência farmacêutica, Rede Farmácia de Minas Gerais RFMG ou Farmácia Popular do Brasil FPB, se apresenta como o mais eficiente sob a perspectiva do financiador público foi realizada uma avaliação econômica. O modelo desenvolvido consiste em um levantamento dos custos incorridos até a dispensação de medicamentos. A análise de Monte Carlo foi utilizada para estimar valores a partir das incertezas. Considerando que a população inicialmente estimada no RFMG fosse atendida em sua totalidade no PFPB, haveria um custo incremental de R$ 139.324.050,19. A análise de Monte Carlo mostrou-se favorável ao RFMG. Foram realizadas 10 mil simulações resultando no valor médio de R$ 114.053.709,99 para RFMG e de R$ 254.106.120,65 para o FPB. O Brasil apresenta uma formulação avançada de políticas públicas na saúde. A Política Nacional de Medicamentos enfatiza a necessidade de fortalecimento da assistência farmacêutica para além da mera aquisição. O modelo público, coerente com princípios e diretrizes do SUS, apresenta-se com condições mais adequadas para garantir assistência integral e universal de qualidade. A avaliação econômica reforça essa afirmativa, pois encontrou maior eficiência na alternativa de aplicação dos recursos diretamente na rede pública.

Abstract We conducted an economic assessment of the Pharmaceutical Assistance - Rede Farmácia de Minas Gerais-RFMG and Farmácia Popular do Brasil-FPB to ascertain which of the two models stands out as the most efficient. To do this, a model, which consisted of a study of incurred costs in both programs, up to the dispensing of medicine to citizens, was developed. The uncertainties of the proposed model were tested using the Monte Carlo method. If the entire population initially estimated in the RFMG were attended in the FPB, there would be an additional cost of R$ 139,324,050.19. The sensitivity analysis appeared to be favorable to the RFMG. A total of 10000 simulations were carried out, resulting in a median value of R$ 114,053,709.99 for the RFMG and R$ 254,106,120.65 for the FPB. The current National Drug Policy emphasizes the need to strengthen pharmaceutical services beyond the mere acquisition and delivery of pharmaceutical products. The public healthcare service model, consistent with the principles and guidelines of the SUS, seems to be more appropriate in ensuring complete and universal quality healthcare services to the citizens. The economic study conducted reinforces this fact, as it appears to be a more efficient alternative of the direct use of resources in the public health network.

Costo-efectividad de una alternativa para la prestación de servicios de atención primaria en salud para los beneficiarios del Seguro Popular de México / Cost-effectiveness analysis of an alternative for the provision of primary health care for beneficiaries of Seguro Popular in Mexico

Resumen: Objetivo: Calcular la razón costo-efectividad de servicios públicos y privados contratados por el Seguro Popular en primer nivel de atención. Material y métodos: Se evaluó una experiencia piloto de contratación de servicios de primer nivel de atención a la salud en el estado de Hidalgo, México, midiendo, con base en una encuesta poblacional, la calidad general y la detección de disminución de visión. Se analizó la sensibilidad mediante simulaciones de Monte Carlo. Resultados: El prestador privado es dominante en calidad y costo-efectivo para la detección de disminución de visión. Conclusiones: La compra estratégica de prestadores privados de atención primaria es promisoria para mejorar los servicios de salud y reducir los costos.

Abstract: Objective: To estimate the cost-effectiveness ratio of public and private health care providers funded by Seguro Popular. Materials and methods: A pilot contracting primary care health care scheme in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico, was evaluated through a population survey to assess quality of care and detection decreased of vision. Costs were assessed from the payer perspective using institutional sources.The alternatives analyzed were a private provider with capitated and performance-based payment modalities, and a public provider funded through budget subsidies. Sensitivity analysis was performed using Monte Carlo simulations. Results: The private provider is dominant in the quality and cost-effective detection of decreased vision. Conclusions: Strategic purchasing of private providers of primary care has shown promising results as an alternative to improving quality of health services and reducing costs.

Custo-efetividade no glaucoma. Conceitos, resultados e perspectiva atual / Cost-effectiveness in glaucoma. Concepts, results and current perspective

RESUMO O glaucoma é a principal causa de cegueira irreversível no Brasil. Sua prevalência e incidência tendem a aumentar significativamente no futuro, principalmente devido ao aumento da população e ao seu envelhecimento. A escassez de recursos para a saúde associada ao aumento da disponibilidade e dos custos das tecnologias em saúde exige uma análise parametrizada destas tecnologias e uma alocação eficiente dos recursos. Os estudos de custo-efetividade e custo-utilidade são importantes, pois permitem uma comparação entre diferentes alternativas tanto em termos de seus custos quanto de seus resultados. Para isto, modelos matemáticos (como modelagem de Markov) são comumente utilizados como método de análise. Existem na literatura muitas evidências de custoefetividade e custo-utilidade no glaucoma, inclusive no Brasil. Este artigo se propõe a revisar de maneira prática os conceitos de avaliação econômica em saúde, os tipos de estudos econômicos em saúde, bem como os resultados dos estudos de custo-efetividade e custo-utilidade na área de glaucoma na literatura.

ABSTRACT Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in Brazil. Its prevalence and incidence tend to increase significantly in the future, mainly due to the population increase and aging. The scarcity of health care resources and the increasing costs in health require a balanced analysis of health interventions and an efficient allocation of resources. The cost-effectiveness and cost-utility studies are important because they allow a comparison between different alternatives in terms of both their costs and their results. For this purpose, mathematical modeling (such as Markov modeling) is commonly used as the analytical method. The literature, including in Brazil, has plenty of evidence of cost-effectiveness and cost-utility in glaucoma. This article aims to review in a practical way the concepts of economic evaluation in health, describe the different types of health economic studies, as well as the results of cost-effectiveness and cost-utility studies in glaucoma in the literature.

Costo efectividad de un programa de rehabilitación cardiovascular modelo para personas post infarto agudo al miocardio en el Servicio de Salud Metropolitano Norte / Cost effectiveness of a theoretical cardiac rehabilitation program after myocardial infarction

Background: Secondary prevention programs are an essential part of comprehensive care of patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD), and its effectiveness in reducing morbidity or mortality has been proved. Aim: To determine the cost-effectiveness of a theoretical comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation (CCR) outpatient program after Myocardial Infarction, to be implemented in a Chilean Public Health System. Material and Methods: We designed a theoretical protocol of a CCR program based on recommendations of international guidelines, but adapted to local needs. A cost analysis was developed. Life years due to premature death were estimated with and without participation in CCR. The gained life-years and cost-effectiveness of the program were thus calculated. Results: The annual cost of cardiac rehabilitation center is $ 64,407,065 Chilean pesos (CLP). The Incremental Cost Effectiveness Ratio (ICER) considering a reduction of late mortality of 25%, is $ 475,209.7 CLP per year of life gained. Since this figure is lower than one unit of per capita gross domestic product, the intervention is considered very cost-effective. Conclusions: A comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation program after myocardial infarction is very cost-effective in the context of its implementation in a public health service.